Syria’s new Islamist rulers plan privatizations, public sector cuts

Syria’s new Islamist leadership is moving swiftly to reshape the country’s shattered economy, announcing plans to privatize state-owned enterprises and lay off a third of public sector workers—marking the most radical economic shift in decades.

The overhaul comes just weeks after rebels ousted President Bashar al-Assad on December 8, ending over 50 years of Assad family rule.

Officials say the measures are aimed at eliminating waste and corruption, long seen as hallmarks of the former regime.

However, the rapid pace of change has sparked protests among government employees, many of whom fear losing their livelihoods in what some suspect could also be a sectarian-driven purge.

Layoffs have already begun, with thousands of workers reportedly dismissed from ministries and state-owned firms. The new government insists that economic liberalization is necessary to rebuild Syria after years of war and mismanagement, but critics warn the sudden shift could deepen social unrest.

As Syria enters an uncertain new era, the economic transition is emerging as a key test for the country’s stability under its Islamist rulers.

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